Zaleski, 43, who for eight years has led the Hartford Business Improvement District, will join the organization June 15.

Riverfront's board tapped Zaleski after a nationwide search, members said.

The nonprofit Riverfront Recapture emerged in the early 1980s with the goal of reconnecting Hartford and East Harford to the Connecticut River. In its early years, it helped with park cleanups, including the rehabilitation of Hartford's historic Riverside Park, and worked to restore pedestrian access to the riverfront.

The organization grew over the years to include numerous initiatives, such as cultural and sporting events, river cruises, community and youth programs, and waterfront planning. It's also responsible for park management and oversees events at all riverfront parks.

A report released in April said the group had yielded more than $7.25 million in added income for residents and state economic activity for Connecticut in 2014.

Thomas Cody, chairman of Riverfront's board, said Wednesday that Zaleski was the right person to lead the organization.

"He brings great experience, energy and vision," Cody said, "and he is a proven leader."

Zaleski said his experience with the business improvement district would translate in his new role.

"Parks have a significant impact on economic development," he said. "It's a natural transition to go from an organization like the BID to Riverfront."

Zaleski said the business improvement district has not yet named his replacement. The organization's board is expected to select someone in the coming months.

Marfuggi, who began work with Riverfront Recapture in 1987, announced last year that he would retire. He had served as president and CEO since 1999.

Marfuggi has been credited with helping transform the riverfront into an attractive destination. In a recent interview with The Courant, he recalled the organization's early efforts, saying Riverside Park, north of the Bulkeley Bridge, was a "dumping ground" before cleanup programs ensued.

"They would take out refrigerators and stoves and cars," he said. "We would measure success at the end of the day in tonnage."

"We have made such progress along the riverfront, building a sustainable future for our parks and events there," he said Wednesday. "That future will now be secured with Mike Zaleski at the helm."